There are enough things to do in Oklahoma City to fill a year, but The Modern Frontier is just as fun on a short layover. Whether you’ve got a full day or just a few hours, it’s well worth venturing out and exploring the unique areas this vibrant, fast-growing city offers. From quirky neighborhoods to historic and contemporary cultural attractions, Oklahoma City has plenty to experience, even if you only have half a day.
IF YOU HAVE A FEW HOURS
If you have a few hours, visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, an inspiring beacon of strength and hope, honoring the victims, heroes, rescuers and survivors of the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. Visitors can take a self-guided chronological tour of the events of that day and experience the serenity of the outdoor memorial. Together, it’s an essential stop in understanding the story of Oklahoma City.
Then, head to the Oklahoma City Museum of Art to see stunning European and American art displays, or explore the First Americans Museum, which celebrates the histories of Oklahoma’s 39 tribal nations through a world-class collection of art and artifacts.
Scissortail Park, Oklahoma City’s newest urban oasis, connects downtown to the Oklahoma River. You’ll find sports courts, playgrounds, art installations and a lake with pedal boats in the summer. If you’d like to stretch your legs, the park also offers lush trails with unbeatable skyline views.
Finally, take a relaxing ride on the Bricktown Water Taxi, which winds through Oklahoma City’s entertainment district. This narrated tour offers a unique perspective of Bricktown’s history, dining and nightlife, making it a fun and easy way to experience the heart of the city.
IF YOU HAVE HALF A DAY
Explore Unique OKC Districts
Oklahoma City is home to numerous districts, and while you might not be able to squeeze them all in on a brief visit, there are a few unique destinations that are perfect for a quick trip.
Bricktown is a hot spot for restaurants, entertainment and nightlife. Play a round of miniature golf or try laser tag at Brickopolis, learn fascinating city facts aboard the Bricktown Water Taxi or sip a locally crafted brew at Bricktown Brewery.
Midtown is the ideal place to experience the city’s urban renaissance. Home to beloved restaurants like Stella Modern Italian Cuisine and The Harvey Bakery & Kitchen, you’ll also find some of the city’s coolest cocktail bars, including R&J’s Lounge and Supper Club, Later Bye and speakeasy-style Lunar Lounge.
The Paseo Arts District is full of local galleries, boutiques, eateries and even a fun arcade in an area famous for its adobe-style architecture.
The Plaza District is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. In addition to the Plaza Walls and the Lyric Theatre, it has some of the quirkiest shops in town, like DNA Galleries, where you can find one-of-a-kind Oklahoma souvenirs, and Bad Granny’s Bazaar, a wonderland of vintage kitsch. The Plaza is also a great place to hang out and people-watch, while enjoying local beer at RADBAR or drinking alfresco at The Margarita Garden.
Uptown 23rd Street, the Asian District and the Wheeler District–home to the Santa Monica Pier Ferris Wheel–are fun areas to explore as well.
IF YOU HAVE A FULL DAY
Morning: History & Culture
In addition to the aforementioned museums, visit other notable museums, such as the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, the American Pigeon Museum & Library and the Museum of Osteology.
The Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center is another staple. Housed in a striking building designed by Rand Elliott Architects to emphasize the quality of light and sky in Oklahoma, the free museum features rotating displays of immersive contemporary arts.
For something uniquely immersive, Factory Obscura is an art collective with a whimsical and hands-on experience called Mix-Tape, where visitors can crawl, slide and interact with their multi-sensory environment.
Lunch: Best Places to Eat in OKC
You’re never far from a memorable meal in The Modern Frontier. For a casual bite, snag a slice of New York-style pizza at Empire Slice House, breakfast tacos at Stitch Cafe, burgers and frozen custard at Spark, or sandwiches on house-baked bread at 30th Street Market.
For local flavor, some of the best barbecue can be found at Edge Craft BBQ and Iron Star Urban BBQ, while steakhouses like Cattlemen’s Steakhouse and Jamil’s Steakhouse pair beef with history.
The city boasts upscale dining destinations, too, such as Vast, where contemporary American cuisine is as breathtaking as the view from the 49th floor of the Devon Tower. The Jones Assembly is a hot spot for indie concerts, but the sprawling venue is just as revered for its seasonal dishes and inventive cocktails. Or, try authentic Laotian and Thai dishes at the Plaza’s Ma Der Lao Kitchen, from award-winning chef Jeff Chanchaleune.
Afternoon: Outdoor & Interactive Attractions
Just north of Scissortail Park, Myriad Botanical Gardens is a lush 15-acre expanse of lawns, gardens and playgrounds, all surrounding the enchanting Crystal Bridge Conservatory, home to waterfalls and flora from across the globe.
From here, hop aboard the Oklahoma City Streetcar to explore the city in style, marveling at street art along the way.
Make a splash at Riversport OKC, a state-of-the-art complex in the Boathouse District where visitors can go whitewater rafting, surfing, zip-lining and even snow skiing. The Oklahoma River is lined with paved walking and cycling paths, which connect to a city-wide urban trail network and scenic destinations like Lake Hefner and Lake Overholser.
Evening: Nightlife & Entertainment
Oklahoma City’s nightlife comes alive at entertainment venues like Tower Theatre and Blue Note Lounge, both long-acclaimed for concerts and events. The former is a Route 66 landmark and home to Ponyboy, a cocktail bar with an upstairs concert venue and dancefloor.
Other performance venues for a range of genres and events include the Civic Center Music Hall (home to arts organizations like the Oklahoma City Philharmonic and the Oklahoma City Ballet), The Jones Assembly, Resonant Head and The Criterion—always a go-to spot for catching touring bands.
For arena-style entertainment, the Paycom Center features nationally promoted concerts from the world’s biggest acts and NBA games with the OKC Thunder.
GETTING AROUND OKC QUICKLY
No matter how brief your visit, OKC is easy to explore thanks to transit options like the Oklahoma City Streetcar, which circles downtown, and plentiful street parking. Visitors will also find rentable Lime Scooters throughout the city, along with extensive routes on EMBARK Buses.
Oklahoma City may be a great pit stop, but chances are, you’ll find yourself wanting to come back for more. With its blend of history, culture, outdoor adventures and a thriving food and arts scene, OKC offers something new to discover every time you visit. Whether it’s a short layover or the start of a longer adventure, The Modern Frontier is always worth the trip. Plan your visit today.
